A Few Things to Keep in Mind...

Should you have Any concerns - I am a Legally Ordained Minister and may lawfully solemnize your marriage.

Once you have obtained your Marriage License, please keep the entire license and envelope 'at hand' so that it is readily
available the day of the ceremony. Your ceremony cannot be performed without it!! The top
portion of the license is the keepsake portion and I return the bottom portion to the county clerk's office
when it is signed after your wedding ceremony.

A minimum non-refundable 50% deposit is required to reserve your date and time and full payment must be completed two
weeks before your wedding day - a money order or your personal check made out to "Melanie Maxell". (To preserve the
emotional integrity of your wedding, and to avoid any possible disruption of your celebration, I feel strongly that all
business must be transacted prior to your wedding day.)

Most bridal guidelines and planning books cite suggested amounts for ministers at a rate of less than one percent of your
total planning budget. This figure is based on weddings held in churches where a fee has already been paid to the church
(usually upwards of $700) for the use of the facilities, and the minister is salaried by the church. The amount called for in
planning books as appropriate (usually around $50 to $150) is a token gift to the minister that is traditionally donated back
to the church by the minister.

My rates are based on the quality and quantity of services provided. My Basic Package is far less, in total cost, than what
you would expect to pay even the most modest traditional church. I am a self-employed, independent contractor, in some
ways, similar to your florist, DJ or caterer. For my fee, I provide complete ceremony services, from start to finish.

I do not require contracts because I prefer to keep things simple. However, I must be notified immediately if you have
a change of plans and my availability will then be on a "first come, first serve" basis.

Do you have some ideas you want to share with your beloved? I am delighted if you want to contribute to the creation of
your ceremony or the writing of your vows. I'll be happy to help you turn your thoughts into words, or your words into a
memorable part of your ceremony. I am readily available by e-mail or phone.